Vegreville News Advertiser - November 6, 2024

WHAT’S INSIDE

Please Help Us Find Mike Current

Mike, A 53 year old man, approx 5’7” tall and 150 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes and has been missing since July 26, 2024 between 5:00 & 8:00 p.m. He was wearing oversized black shorts, a black golf shirt and a baseball cap. Mike went missing from his home on 50th St. in the north part of Vegreville. He recently had dental surgery and was in considerable pain. Mike is diabetic so may be weak, and possibly confused or exhibiting slurred speech.

If you have any information regarding Mike’s whereabouts, please call 911

assault by his neighbour where he was hit in the back of the head and neck about 15 times.

08:12 – Report of a male kicking in an apartment door and falling asleep on the couch. Believed to be on drugs. The complainant did not report it until she could find a phone to use. Subject arrested.

08:37 – Complainant reports leaving her purse on the back of a chair in a restaurant. Upon returning five minutes later it was gone. Inquires made to the staff at that time and the next day, but the purse had not been turned in.

14:16 – Complainant stated that following a fire at their property, people are entering despite everything being boarded up. Most everything that remained including tools had been stolen and is reporting the trespassing at night for information.

18:40 – Report of a neighbour’s Pitbull escaping the yard (for the 15th time) and jumping on her, digging his claws in and being “overly friendly.” No significant injuries reported. Owner given a verbal warning.

19:33 – Report of a suspicious male who came to her property saying he ran out of gas. Complainant drove to where the vehicle was located and it was parked in the ditch. Members attempted to contact the registered owner multiple times with no success. Tow was arranged to remove the vehicle.

October 29

21:03 – Porch pirate. Complainant reports an Amazon parcel being taken from his doorstep. File number supplied for claim with Amazon. No other package thefts reported.

October 30

12:14 – Restaurant reported a customer who was being disruptive and disorderly. Members attended and did not observe anything, however staff indicated that the customer was rude and they wanted him removed. Further investigation provided conflicting stories. The subject indicated he was never rude but was simply asking for a cup of coffee. He agreed to leave.

16:33 – Members assisted with a stolen white Chevy Equinox behind a bank. No one was around and the complainant stated it had been there since the day before. Vehicle towed.

cut and removed. Tools were left at the scene.

November 01

09:09 – Complainant reports that when they were starting their vehicle in the morning they found the driver’s side mirror had been knocked off.

18:30 – Caller reports almost hitting someone dressed in all black, walking down the middle of the road by the Vegreville Golf Course. Patrols were made along the road but no one was located walking in the area.

November 02

02:41 – While on patrol, members observed a black Dodge Ram parked on 45 B Ave. The vehicle was running with the driver behind the wheel and unresponsive. Members did not know if the driver was in medical distress. Further investigation resulted in a roadside screening where the driver blew a FAIL and was found to be impaired. The vehicle was towed and the driver given Provincial Sanctions.

18:41 – 911 call to report a suspicious male walking on the side of the highway. The subject was described as a male wearing a toque and vest walking along the shoulder. The complainant stopped and asked if the male needed help. Complainant called back to update the call indicating that RCMP was no longer required as the male just ran out of gas on the Hwy.

03:25 – Break and enter in progress. Report of an alarm going off at an industrial site across from his residence. Complainant investigated and saw suspects who had opened a door to a building and later fled eastbound in a large silver Chevy SUV, possibly a Tahoe.

October 31

08:42 – Complainant reported that someone broke the gates at his property, smashed windows in a truck and broke into a trailer.

23:26 – 911 call of a reckless driver. The complainant reported seeing a dark coloured car speeding on the Range Road. Vehicle was seen doing donuts in the field. License plate was not seen. Members patrolled the area but the vehicle was not located.

08:30 – Bank employees reported an unwanted male sleeping in the front lobby of the bank. Members attended, located the subject and charged them accordingly.

12:41 – Fish and Wildlife officer reported an abandoned, stolen Dodge Ram on Hwy 36 near TWP 520. Vehicle towed and held. Registered owner contacted who stated they had $11,000 cash inside.

09:48 – Break and enter and theft. After returning home the complainant found a subject had pulled her doorbell off, entered the home and ran out the back. Now the complainant’s tablet is missing. The complainant’s son and subject’s daughter were at the house and witnessed the entry.

12:51 – Caller was waiting for an officer to attend as he was on Hwy 36 with a stolen vehicle when someone came to him and stated that there was another vehicle in the bush. Complainant got the plate number and it was determined to be stolen as well. He now has two stolen vehicles for members.

During the week there were 64 calls for service made in total including: 2 false 911s, 1 false alarm, 0 animal strikes, 3 relationship violence, 3 calls under the Mental Health Act or related to mental health, and approximately 10 tickets or warnings from traffic enforcement.

The RCMP encourages members of the community to contact them if they have any information on files listed in the Blotter.

Have questions about the Blotter? Reach out to us at blotter@newsadvertiser.com and we will do our best to provide answers to your queries.

10:27 – Complainant reports an

16:01 – Members attended a rural commercial site where a lock on the gate was cut and 200 meters of copper wire was

Vegreville Museum Artifacts Sold at Auction

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Members of the public had the opportunity to own a piece of Vegreville’s history during a recent online auction.

Town of Vegreville Councillor David Berry stated that, two online auction sessions were held on October 16 and 23. “Proceeds obtained by the sale of museum artifacts will be allocated to reclaiming the property and maintaining and restoring artifacts that remain in town.”

Coun. Berry said, “This approach aligns with the Alberta Museum Association’s Guidelines on Deaccessioning and Disposal of Collections, which the Town’s Museum Deaccessioning Committee followed throughout the process. Currently, the Town is still planning how and where to display the artifacts it has retained.”

He also explained the steps that had been taken prior to the online auction. “Upon the commencement of the deaccessioning process of the Vegreville Regional Museum earlier this year, we invited all museums affiliated with the Alberta Museums Association to participate in reviewing and relocating museum artifacts.

Over twenty museums attended to help with the process including the Royal Alberta Museum, Provincial Archives of Alberta, Reynolds-Alberta Museum, and the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, just to name a few.

Over a third of the museum collection was able to be redistributed through this process to museums and local non-profits -including the Vegreville Agricultural Society and Vegreville Cultural Association- to con-

tinue to be preserved and displayed.

Once this process was complete, the Town of Vegreville invited the original donors or their direct descendants to submit requests for the return of their donations. While this process was not required by law, the Town of Vegreville considered requests for the return of items which had significant family importance and could be clearly identified. Over 30 individuals contacted the Town regarding items that may have been donated to the museum. We were able to return many items of family significance or let family members know where items had been relocated to.”

Following that, the online auction was held. According to Layne Quickstad, Community Engagement Coordinator for the Town of Vegreville, “Sunrise Estate Services quoted the Town $3,750 plus 20 percent commission for the auction sale. This included the complete management of the auction sale: organizing lots, professional photos, and a social media marketing cam-

paign that included five specifically curated videos.”

Quickstad said they are still waiting on the final sale totals. When we have a final count for the auction proceeds, these figures will, first, be presented to town council at the earliest possible meeting. A final report summarizing the Museum Deaccessioning Process will be presented to town council in the new year.”

Signage near Town of Vegreville east entrance. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

So as Not To Repeat the Past

Arthur Beaudette

Advertiser – Opinion

Two Minutes of Silence

The most sacrosanct and central element in Remembrance is the Two Minutes of Silence.

At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 when the First World War ceased hostilities, Canadians pause to observe two minutes of silence to honour the Fallen, and recognize the sacrifices of all who served.

These days there is a day for everything. I’m not exaggerating. If you look up the “National Day Calendar” you will see that there is ACTUALLY a day for everything including sandwiches, sundaes, vinegar and even a pizza with the works (except anchovies) day. Some groups even want entire weeks or months.

However, when it comes to our Veterans, the very people who sacrificed so we can have the freedoms we often take for granted, we reserve one day. November 11. On Remembrance Day we honour those who gave their lives to serve our country. By remembering, we pay tribute to members of the Canadian

Armed Forces and RCMP who served to defend our values and freedoms. We also honour those who continue to serve our country today.

I am no historian, and these days, one can find all the details at your fingertips, however, I will provide a few items of note. World War I or the first world war took place between July 28, 1914 and November 11, 1918 is also known as the Great War. World War II is one many people still have in their minds and is considered to have started on September 1, 1939 when Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany invaded Poland. This conflict ended on September 2, 1945. Other conflicts of note for Canadian soldiers include the Korean War (1950-1953) and Afghanistan (2001-2014) as well as numerous peace support missions that our military has been involved in since 1954.

It should surprise no one that due to our warring nature, you would be hard pressed to find a single year over the last century that there has not been armed conflict somewhere on earth. Even today we can see in the news reports of one of many. It is important to remember the past. “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it”. It is often attributed to Spanish philosopher and Harvard professor George Santayana, who wrote it in his 1905 book, ‘The Life of Reason.’ Winston Churchill also stated in a speech in the British House of Commons, “Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.”

In recent years, we have seen new conflicts arise. We have also seen the rise of old foes and the very rights our Veterans fought for being taken away in other countries. Recently, it was reported that the Taliban has implanted new “morality” laws in Afghanistan in a 114-age document which include forbidding women from hearing each other’s voices in public.

Our special section for Remembrance Day is filled with interesting stories and war facts as well as the program for the Legion’s Ceremony at the Vegreville Social Centre. I hope this year, you take some time to pause, think about those who have sacrificed so much so that we can live in peace without the worries that people in other parts of the world have. If you are able, consider joining in a local ceremony and thank a Veteran for their service.

As Canadians, we should honour our Veterans and use the voice they gave us to keep calling out oppression. We may be insulated from far away conflicts, but history has shown us that if we sit idly by, those hungry for power or driven by hate will take advantage of those weaker than they.

Tell me what you think. Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Members of Vegreville town council were happy to be able to finally let residents in on some good news at its Oct. 28 regular meeting.

They officially welcomed Kuldeep Sharma and his team from Build Bright Homes, the company that will be constructing commercial, retail and residential properties in the community in the very near future.

Sharma, made a formal presentation to council at the meeting. A general contractor, engineer by trade as well as owner of a manufacturing plant in Edmonton that will be making panels for a commercial-retail plaza at 4846-50 Avenue, former location of Full Throttle, that had been destroyed by fire and subsequently purchased by the town.

Sharma said the plaza would include a day care and other retail services as well as a drive thru restaurant. He gave an overview of the commercial site plan that was approved by council on Oct. 16. “There will be two retail units and one is a drive thru restaurant. We are working with a few franchises right now.”

Another component of the space will be a day care, “which is in high demand right now,” added Sharma. “I have already lined up all the interior plans, and some staff, which we are going to move from Edmonton and live in the town permanently.” He

Bright Future Ahead for Vegreville

noted that for 120 children, they would require 28 full and part-time employees.

Additionally, “If we fill up all the retail space here we need somewhere around 60-70 employees which will be fulltime and two permanent employees, including the drive thru restaurant.

Sharma said they manufacture pre-cast concrete panels with insulation built into the panels which, he noted, meet Alberta’s new energy efficiency code. “We’re not using deep foundation because that wall will act as a foundation and will be two feet deeper and do backfill onto the foundation wall.

“Its new technology people are adapting to, especially in Alberta because the weather is challenging here, and we have very limited time for the construction. Surprisingly, it will decrease the lead time for construction once we start. One building will be up in five to six business days, starting with the commercial space and day care and then the drive thru restaurant…The goal is to start construction in mid to late November.”

The residential development is located in the Fox View subdivision. The initial plan is to build three homes, and if there’s enough demand, to purchase additional lots. Sharma said there are 15 other lots, which could also be subdivided to accommodate row housing, tri or four plex homes that could increase the

Bright Future - CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Signage for proposed development. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

90 Years Ago – November 7, 1934

Farmers in the Mundare area protesting the lack of cleaning equipment in elevators, allegedly severe dockage and under grading, and low prices, decided at a week-end meeting to go on strike against grain deliveries tomorrow. This announcement was made by Peter Kleparchuk, secretary, and A.J. Lesuik chairman of the strike committee.

Proving themselves most charming of hostesses the nurses of the General Hospital were “At Home” to many of their friends On Thursday last. The occasion was the opening of their newly renovated home just south of the hospital itself. As each party of visitors entered the door they were met by some of the nurses and conducted through the building, shown the lecture room, where they were introduced to Jiggs and Maggie, Jiggs being a skeleton suspended in the corner while Maggie was a dummy reposing in another corner. After this the young ladies sleeping quarters were displayed. There nearness and order prevailed in well-lighted comfortable rooms. Some of the dormitories contained four beds, others two, and others only one.

75 Years Ago – November 9, 1949

Jacob Melenka, a farmer in the Warwick district, has worked hard tilling the soil, harvesting crops, and raising livestock during the 20 years he has operated his farm. An inspection of the farm indicates that the 42-year-old native of Bruderheim has made rapid progress and his establishment is a credit to the community and well deserving of the “Master Farmer” award, Zone 4.

A very well-attended meeting of the Heather Curling Club was held on Tuesday evening in the town hall. Offices elected for the current year are: President – W.R. Belcher; 1st Vice President – Cam Campbell; 2nd Vice President – A.H. Mercier and SecretaryTreasurer – Archie Jeffrey.

Winners of free airplane rides at the Elk’s Carnival last Saturday night were: George Hantiuk and Sam Zaporozan. Bob Boyer, formerly with Vegreville Motors Ltd., has taken over the mechanical duties of Paskar’s Service Station.

To perpetuate the link made during the war between Bexhill, Sussex, and Canadian troops billeted there, Bexhill Council has given Canadian names to roads on a housing estate in the town’s northern suburb. The names chosen are Canada Way, St. Lawrence Road, Edmonton Road, and Calgary Road.

50 Years Ago – November 7, 1974

A Jersey calf shown by Grant Cole of Vegreville was named Champion Junior Dairy Calf and winner of the Kiwanis Club of Edmonton Challenge Trophy at Farmfair ’74. Reserve Champion Junior Dairy Calf was a Holstein shown by Mark Cristall of Hay Lakes. After an absence of almost 40 years, the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce is returning to Vegreville. Work began on their quarterof-a-million dollar branch building with the removal of shrubs and Paraphernalia that once formed a portion of the Synagogue. The Synagogue, proper, was removed some time ago following the purchase of the property.

Art Roland, a veteran member of the council of the County of Minburn was appointed Reeve at the County for a 1 year term at the organizational meeting. Mr. Roland was successful in maintaining his position as a representative of Division 2.

Mike W. Kawulych was presented with a gold watch from Nick Kuzyk, Chairman of the Alberta Elks Foundation. Mr. Kawulych assisted with the incorporation of the Alberta Elks Foundation. The process and planning which took 13 years, became a reality on May 9, 1072. The watch was given to Mr. Kawulych as a token of appreciation for all the work he had done.

25 Years Ago – November 9, 1999

Members of the Eighth Field Engineer Regiment put the finishing touches on a section of a Bailey Bridge erected behind Vegreville’s Cenotaph on Thursday as a tribute to World War II veterans

Hundreds of people gathered Friday night to roast and toast Jerry Wilde on his semi-retirement from the accounting firm he founded in Vegreville in 1962.

Vegreville and District Community Policing Advisory Committee held a fundraising hot dog sale at Vegreville Co-op on Tuesday. The organization works with other community groups to discuss and deal with social problems in our area and promote crime prevention strategies. During the past year, they’ve been involved in the Child Identification Program, Home Renovation Fraud Workshop, Safety Tips, Crime Prevention Award Program, D.A.R.E. Program, Bicycle Roadeo, and Student’s Spring Cleanup.

Mrs. Bessie Pawliuk, a resident of the Vegreville area since 1960, has been chosen to represent Motherhood in Vegreville and the Canadian Silver Cross Mother at this year’s Remembrance Day ceremony.

The Vegreville Unit of the Canadian Cancer Society presented Vegreville 4-H Horse Whisperers with a certificate of appreciation for holding their trail ride for cancer. Past President Oleh Sokoluk made the presentation to leader Shirley Reithmayer. Assisting her on the Trail Ride were Daryl Cole and Jim Davis.

Think Beef Prices are High Now?

Sylvain Charlebois Dalhousie University

Sorry beef lovers. Beef prices will likely remain high until mid to late 2025, possibly even longer. Droughts in North America have forced many cattle producers to reduce their herds, resulting in tighter supplies.

Higher food costs, elevated interest rates – crucial for the capital-intensive cattle industry – and downsizing herds have collectively pushed prices to record levels. As many producers exit the industry, the reduction in supply exacerbates the situation. For cattle producers, these high prices are welcome, but the story is quite different for consumers.

Beef has been a major driver of food inflation in recent months, outpacing general inflation. According to Statistics Canada, the price of beef stewing cuts has increased by 19 per cent in the last year, while beef rib cuts surged by 26 pe cent. Even ground beef, often considered the most affordable beef option, has seen a 15 percent hike in price over the past year.

drought-induced cattle sell-offs.

Consumers retreated from the beef category, and sales never fully recovered. The current situation, however, could be even worse. As of July 1, 2024, Canada’s cattle herd was the smallest since 1987, despite the country now having 15 million more people. The U.S. is experiencing an even more pronounced decline, with the smallest cattle inventory since 1951.

At some point, producers may attempt to rebuild their herds to take advantage of high prices, but this won’t happen overnight. Economic uncertainty, including fluctuating interest rates and the U.S. presidential election, may cause the industry to delay any significant expansion.

One role of the Vegreville News Advertiser is to promote dialogue on various issues of concern to area residents. We accomplish this by welcoming Letters to the Editor and allowing various issues to be debated through our pages. All letters must contain the writer’s name, address and phone number. Anonymous letters will not be printed, however the writer’s name may be withheld from publication in special circumstances deemed appropriate by the Publisher. The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to edit letters for length, clarity, spelling and grammar, taste or for reasons of potential libel. A maximum of 150 words is preferred. The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to withhold letters from publication.

The situation is no different in the United States. A pound of ground beef is now at $5.67, a record high and an increase of 43 per cent since January 2021. Beef, long considered a luxury protein, is now facing price points that could severely dampen demand for an extended period. While meat sales as a category fell three per cent in the latest quarter, according to NielsenIQ, the paradox is that American consumers are still purchasing beef, albeit at a steep cost.

Consumers should expect to see elevated beef prices through 2025 and into 2026. This trend is likely to hold, whether it’s BBQ season or not. The beef industry faces a tough challenge in maintaining consumer interest amidst these high prices. Back in 2015, the price surge led to the closure of many butcher shops as consumers adopted more frugal approaches to buying animal protein.

As history has shown, when prices spook consumers, new habits form. This shift could have long-lasting consequences for sectors like beef, which are key to North America’s agricultural economy. Keeping consumers engaged in the face of these price pressures will be a challenge, one that the industry must tackle head-on.

We’ve seen this before.

We’ve seen this before. In 2015, beef prices at

In 2015, beef prices at retail surged nearly 30 per cent within a few weeks, driven by

Dr. Sylvain Charlebois, a Canadian professor and researcher specializing in food distribution and policy, is a senior director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University and co-host of The Food Professor Podcast. He is frequently cited in the media for his insights on food prices, agricultural trends, and the global food supply chain.

Realignment Auction for R Diamond Ranches

Sale Starts November 8th & Closes November 13th, 2024 -Thorhild County, AB

Directions: From the Junction of Hwy #63 & Hwy #661, 24 Kms West on Hwy #661, South Side of the Road. Blue Sign: 22523 Hwy 661

Tractors

JD 6140R FWA Tractor

w/ Showing 5286 Hrs, IVT Trans, New

JD 640R FEL @ 5200 Hrs, Premium Cab, Rear 3pth Controls, 540/1000 PTO 3 pth, 3 Hyd, Joystick & 3rd Valve

JD 9100 4wd Tractor

w/ Showing 4097 Hrs, 3 Hyd, Case Return Line, Draw Bar, 12 Spd Stnd Trans & 20.8R38 Duals

JD 4630 2wd Tractor

w/ Showing 4611 Hrs, 2 Hyd, 1000 PTO, New A/C Pump & 24.5x32 Rear

Duetz Allis 9170 FWA Tractor

w/ Showing 6665 Hrs, Big 1000 PTO & 20.8x42 Rear Duals

MF 2775 2wd Tractor

w/ Showing 3263 Hrs, Perkins 640 Diesel Engine, 3 Hyd, 1000 PTO, 18.4x42 Duals

Construction

JD 333G Skid Steer w/ Showing 1551 Hrs, New Undercarriage, Tracks, Sprockets & Motor

Allis Chalmers 816 Rubber Tire Back Hoe w/ Showing 3787 Hrs

MF 40B Rubber Tire Back Hoe

Cat 14E Grader w/ 3 Shank Ripper

Hurricane 26 3 pth Ditcher

Trucks

International 8600 T/A C&C Hi-Way Truck w/ Showing 349,979 Kms, Cummins, Eaton Fuller Auto, Air Ride, 8’x 14’ Deck, 1400 Gal Tank

Freightliner T/A Hi-Way Truck w/ Cat Engine & 9 Spd Trans

2006 International 4300 S/A Vacuum Truck w/ Approx. 500,000 Kms, DT466 Engine & Allison Auto Trans Ford F700 S/A Water Truck w/ Showing 99,833 Kms & 5 Spd Manual Trans International 4900 S/A Gravel Truck w/ DT466 Engine, Eaton Fuller 8 Spd Trans & 11’ Box

1980 GMC 7000 T/A Grain Truck w/ Approx. 47,000 Kms, 427 Gas, 5&4 Trans, Chelsea PTO & Cascade 17’ Steel Box

GMC 6500 High Sierra S/A Grain Truck w/ Showing 84,872 Kms, V8 Gas, 5&4 Trans, 16’ Courtney Berg Steel Box

International Loadstar 1600 S/A Grain Truck w/ Showing 102,140 Kms, V8 Gas, 5&2 Trans, 16’ Wood Box Trailers

2008 Jet 38’ T/A Grain Trailer w/ Dual Hopper & Spring Ride 48’ High Boy Trailer w/ Bale Rack

Featherlite 20’ T/A Stock Trailer

Diamond C 24’ Tilt Deck T/A Trailer

Tillage

Spra Coupe 4660 S/P Sprayer w/ Showing 1233 Engine Hrs, Perkins Diesel, Hydrostatic Drive, JD

2630 GreenStar & 400 Gallon Tank

Flexi Coil 55 70’ P/T Sprayer w/ Wind Screens, 2400 Ltr Tank & Hyd Driven

Ezee On 24’ Offset Disc

Kello Bilt 225 15’ Offset Disc

Leons 4000 40’ Vibrashank Cultivator

Morris 40’ Vibrashank Cultivator

Wil-Rich 40’ Vibrashank Cultivator

Wil- Rich 28’ Vibrashank Cultivator

Morris L-225 Challenger II 25’ Vibrashank Cultivator

Case IH 24’ Vibrashank Cultivator

Morris 8900 35’ DT Cultivator

Wil-Rich 24’ DT Cultivator

Vicon CP2500 24’ DT Cultivator

International 22’ DT Chisel Plow

Case IH 5600 17’ DT Chisel Plow

3 pth Spring Tooth Cultivator

JD 9450 30’ Hoe Drill w/ 3- 10’ Sections, Factory Transport, Rubber Packers & Fertilizer/Seed

JD 3600 7 Bottom Plow

Flexi Coil System 80 56’ Harrows

30’ Bi-Fold Pasture Chain Harrows

Haul All Dual Hopper Drill Fill Farmking Seed Cleaner

Haying

JD 946 13’ HydroSwing MoCo

JD 560M Rd Baler w/ Approx. 13,500 Bales, Net & Twine, Monitor

JD 347 Sq Baler

Sitrex QR12 12 Wheel Hay Rake Niemeyer Hay Tedder

Harvest

JD 9870 STS Combine w/ Showing 2435 Engine Hrs, 1744 Thrashing Hrs, Crary Big Top Hopper Extension, JD 615 P/U Header & 520/85R42 Duals

JD 630F 30’ Hydraflex Straight Cut Header w/ Crop Dividers

Elmers Header Transport

MF 220XL 25’ Swather w/ Showing 1710 Hrs, Diesel, Hydrostatic Trans, Agco 25 Draper Header w/ UII P/U & Triple Delivery

Westfield MK100-51 10”x51’ Swing Auger

Westfield 70-46 7”x46’ PTO Auger

Westfield J201-41 Auger w/ Gas Engine

Westfield MK80-51 Swing Auger

Sakundiak HD8-1600 PTO Auger

Sakundiak HD8-1200 Auger

Sakundiak HD8-1200 Auger

Bales

1st & 2nd Cut Silage Bales

Cattle Handling

Highline CFR 651 Bale Processor

3 pth Bale Unroller

Renn Crypit Roller Mill

Hi-Hog Cattle Squeeze

Arrow Alley Way (3 Sections w/ Tub)

Maternity Pen

Large Assortment of Wind Fences, Panels, Cattle Oilers, Feed Bunks, Bale Feeders, Calf Shelters, Water Boxes, Creep Feeders, Fence Line Feeders, Loading Chute

Water Tank w/ Stand on Skid

Passenger Vehicle & Recreational

1965 Ford Mustang 2 Dr Car w/ Showing 4,906 Miles on 5 Digit Odometer & 289 Engine.

Pontiac Beaumont Car w/ Showing 94,560 Miles on 5 Digit Odometer

Lincoln Town Car Limo

2011 Forest River North Ridge 290RKD

29’ 5th Wheel Holiday Trailer

18’ Open Bow Boat w/ Eagle Fish Finder & Evinrude VRO Outboard Motor

Children's Play Center

Dynasty Spa 6 Person Hot Tub

Hold On Ice Fishing Shack

Other Equipment

JD Z915B 60” Riding Lawn Mower

JD D140 48” Riding Lawn Mower

Ezee On Loader

International 2350 FEL

Ezee On Trail Type Post Pounder

United Farms P/T Grass Seeder

Farm King 87 1/2"(W) x 15 1/2"(L)

4 Wheel Wagon

JD AC3500 Hot Water Pressure Washer

Lincoln Welder

Accurate Hay Scale

Large Asst of Tractor Tires

Unique Presentation by Harvey Spak and Marango Pie

Submitted The Basilian Fathers Museum in Mundare, Alberta, was the perfect setting on October 26, 2024 for a theatrical trip into history about early Ukrainian settlement in Western Canada and the local Mundare district. The event featured internationally renowned artist, poet and filmmaker Harvey Spak. The unique presentation was comprised of a mix of historical stories and display of videos all of which were enriched with the music of the Ukrainian musicians, the Murango Trio Spak’s presentation was a reminder of the challenges faced by the early settlers. But it also illustrated how they overcame numerous barriers and obstacles to achieve a new life in a new country. Spak’s emotional stories captivated the

attention of the crowd for over 2 hours with topics like: Wilderness Terror/ Prairie Liberation; Weeping and Wailing; Toiling in Cold and Hunger, they cleared the forests and converted a wilderness into fertile fields; and Romance at the Basilian Father’s Church. Stories Chapter 5 Dangerous Work--I was 15 years old and at harvest time it way my job to haul water for the threshing outfit’s steam engine. I drove a team pulling a wagon loaded with tin water barrels. On a trip to a neighbour’s well tore fill the barrels; a gust of wind blew some sheets of newspaper across my team’s path. The horses spooked. I pulled on the reins with all my might to no avail. The clatter of the empty barrels made them gallop all the faster. I screamed and screamed in terror A Vain Effort. By Maria Adamoska.

The event was sponsored by the Kalyna Country Ecomuseum Society. Vice Chair Barry McDonald stated, “Our Society is proud to be a sponsor of this event as it so closely aligns with the values and purpose of our organization. We are a group of volunteers dedicated to promoting heritage and eco-tourism in rural North East/Central Alberta. This event is very illustrative of efforts that will inform visitors and the public-at-large about the history of early settlers in this region. The Society is also dedicated to promoting and preserving a vast array of current opportunities available to visitors in Kalyna Country”

The Kalyna Country Ecomuseum was established in 1991 –1992 on the initiative of the Alberta Historic Sites and Archives Service, and the Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies at the University of Alberta. McDonald concluded by saying, “Today we witnessed the type of event that clearly illustrates our values. Hosted in the perfect type of facility, the Basilian Fathers Museum; historical stories and films by Harvey Spak illustrating both a historical and artistic feature and entertaining Ukrainian music by the Marango Trio.”

Ukrainian entertainers Marango Pie. (Kalyna Country Ecomuseum Society/Submitted Photo)

Harvey Spak.

(Kalyna Country Ecomuseum Society/Submitted Photo)

Successful Tourist Season in Vegreville

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Even though the number of visitors to Vegreville was down, revenue was up; that, according to Councillor Justin Curtis. He made that statement during his report to council during the Oct. 28 regular council meeting. Mini golf attracted 876 people and usage of the paddle boats increased to 854 rentals. Over 1,600 nights at the campground.

Almost half of the estimated 68,000 visitors were from Edmonton, with 24 percent coming from Northeastern Alberta, 17 percent from Calgary, 11 percent from Southern Alberta and 2.3 per cent from Lloydminster. Of course, the majority of visitors were from Alberta, followed by British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Ontario. The highest percentage of out of country visitors were from the U.S. (10 percent) followed by Australia (2 percent) United Kingdom (1.5 percent) Ukraine (1 percent) and the remaining five percent from other countries in the world.

much sturdier, making it easier to get in and out of.

In addition to these items, we have added power to select locations of the park with plans to enhance these areas with things like free Wi-Fi, lighting, music, etc.

New this year, we started selling hard ice cream from the VIC. This proved to be more successful than we had anticipated and look forward to continuing this new incentive next year.

We also plan to incorporate phase two to the “Winter Wonderland” project to ‘light up the park”! Coun. Lemko reported on the Vegreville Agricultural Society (VAS)and the success it also had this past season. He remarked, “Kudos to them. They are bringing tourism to our community.” Looking forward, Coun. Lemko said VAS is “fully booked” for the upcoming spring and summer. One new event that the organization will be hosting is the Indian Relay Race that is slated to be held in mid-May.

Town of Vegreville Tourism Coordinator Michelle Gladys said the tourist season began on May 2 and closed on Sept. 30. “This year we continued to offer the “Borrow-a-Bike” program and encouraged people to #PickUpThePysanka and share on social media. We added phase two to the mini golf, which included regionally themed custom obstacles.

We purchased two new, commercial grade paddle boats. Despite the fact that we started charging $5 per boat ride and had one less boat than last year, our numbers were higher this year than last year. Also, the new boats elevate the safety factor, as these paddle boats are

Canada Day festivities. (Town of Vegreville/Submitted Photo)

Paddle boat adventure on the trout pond. (Town of Vegreville/Submitted Photo)

Tinisha Young, Submitted

A Family’s Wartime Connection

This is the story of my Granny Evelyn’s uncle, Napoleon Morin, who served with the Royal Winnipeg Rifles during World War II and fought in both D-Day and the Battle of Normandy in France.

Napoleon was from Cumberland House Cree Nation in Saskatchewan and enlisted in the Canadian military at just 22 years old. To serve, he had to give up his Treaty rights, with a promise of land upon his return—a promise that was never fulfilled. For years, we believed he had died in a POW camp but had no other information until a researcher in Ontario, Shirley Stone, uncovered more details. In 2012, we learned that Napoleon had stormed the beaches on D-Day and was captured by the SS, becoming a prisoner of war. Alongside 14 other Canadian soldiers, he managed to escape, but they soon faced another situation. Mistaken for enemy forces, they were caught in an airstrike by American Mustang pilots in SaintGeorges-des-Groseillers. One soldier bravely removed his jacket and waved it to signal the pilots to stop firing, but tragically, it was too late. Six of the 15 soldiers, including our uncle Napoleon, were fatally wounded.

Two young girls, aged eight and nine at the time, tried to aid Napoleon

in his final moments. Though they have since passed away, they later shared, “They did what they could, with what they had, and what they were able to do with the Germans watching.” Napoleon died on June 11, 1944.

A 12-year-old boy recalled carrying his body in a horse buggy to bury him along with other soldiers. His body was later exhumed and moved to the town cemetery, and then again to his final resting place at the Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery, along the main road from Caen to Falaise.

The people of Saint-Georgesdes-Groseillers have always honored the memory and sacrifices of those Canadian soldiers. When we visited his final resting place in 2012, we were touched by the warmth and respect shown by the town. This year, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, we were invited back. We had billet families who took us in, cooked us food, and the town gave us two vehicles to use during our stay. We toured the countryside in Normandy of where my Uncle’s journey from the beach would have been. My dad led a smudge for our family, and we left a braid of sweetgrass and tobacco at Napoleon’s grave—a gesture of grati-

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C/O VNA P.O. Box 810

Vegreville, Alberta T9C 1R9

Email: angels@newsadvertiser.com

Submit via www.newsadvertiser.com

Drop in at 5110 - 50 Street

*Complete form & attach photo

*$40 per picture for processing

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*Deadline to submit photographs is December 13, 2024.

tude and remembrance.

We were part of huge celebration and ceremony, and my children even led a parade. It was a profound experience for me to see my children connect with their family’s wartime history. Watching them play on Juno Beach warmed my heart and made me proud to share this heritage with them.

On Oct. 16 Vegreville Mayor Tim MacPhee told members of council that the John S. Batiuk Water Commission had launched a $1.3 million lawsuit against the Capital Region Northeast Water Services Commission (CRNWSC).

MacPhee said they had put a previous lawsuit on pause in the courts hoping to find some resolution. “We’ve tried mediation, we’ve tried everything.” He went on to say, “They, (CRNWSC) countersued us, but they dropped their suit because the money was sitting in a trust with their lawyer which happens to be Brownlee.

In our contract, in our water supply agreement, it says if there can’t be any resolution to the problems, you have to go to the Utilities Commission and our lawyers have been holding off for about two years now, not wanting to go there, but that’s where we’re

7-DAY WEATHER

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Vegreville Mayor Tim MacPhee (News Advertiser/File Photo)

Napoleon Morin. (Tinisha Young/Submitted Photo)

Tinish’s family by his grave. (Tinisha Young/Submitted Photo)

Tree with the Canadian flag was the location of the airstrike. (Tinisha Young/Submitted Photo)

going right now.”

MacPhee also stated that members of the CRNWSC voted to include capital costs and capital reserve built into the water rate that it charges the Town of Vegreville. “They want us to pay 30 percent of the bills of Sturgeon County, Gibbons, Redwater, and it’s their waterline that goes up even further than that; and they expect our residents to pay this even though the province put this deal together and paid them for the capacity for the Vegreville Water Commission and we have ownership of that fill line.”

He also said that CRNWSC also want to charge the Town of Vegreville 30 percent of their manager’s wages. “I know all of the councillors from the municipalities that sit on that board. They broke the law again, knowing full well what this legal agreement says.”

MacPhee also advised that he would be going to those member municipalities to “take them to task” on the code of conduct and would be writing letters to the mayors and reeves of those municipalities as well as going public on the matter.

Planning and Development Director Dale Lefebvre told members of council the average for about the last seven years has been about 2.1 percent and it would be 21.7 percent. Lefebvre said it was a big increase that was being projected for 2025 and noted that EPCOR was also increasing its rates.

At the Oct. 28 council meeting, MacPhee said he met with the legal team for the John S. Batiuk Water Commission on Oct. 22 and it was confirmed they would be

- CONTINUED from PAGE 10

going to the Alberta Utilities Commission to air its grievance against the CRNWSC. “We have, through Court of Kings Bench, put a stay in our lawsuit, the $1.3 million lawsuit against the other commission.”

MacPhee said they were still holding back monies in a trust fund until CRNWSC can reconcile what they are charging the John S. Batiuk for. “Hopefully, in the next two months that we will be getting in front of the utilities board to hear our case.”

Notice to Creditors and Claimants

Estate of

Robert Lawrence Phillips who died on October 18, 2024.

If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by: December 13, 2024 with Olson Rau + Mohr Solicitor for the Personal Representative at #12, 6109 50th Avenue Vegreville, Alberta T9C 1N6 and provide details of your claim. If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.

Pursuant to Section 22 and 606 of the Municipal Government Act (MGA), Revised Statutes of Alberta 2000, Chapter M-26 a Public Hearing is scheduled for November 18, 2024 at 10:15 a.m. in the County of Minburn Council Chambers, 4909 – 50 Street, Vegreville to provide the public with the opportunity to comment on proposed Bylaw No. 1353-24.

The purpose of Bylaw No. 1353-24 is to close to public travel and dispose and consolidate the unused portion of the following described roadway:

All that portion of Government road allowance between the northeast quarter of Section 23, Township 50, Range 9, west of the 4th meridian and southeast quarter Section of 26, Township 50, Range 9 west of the 4th meridian containing 1.34 hectares (3.32) acres more or less excepting thereout all mines and minerals.

A copy of Bylaw No. 1353-24 is available for inspection at the County of Minburn Administration Office during regular business hours at 4909 – 50 Street, Vegreville, AB. An electronic copy of the document may also be viewed on the County's website at https://minburncounty.ab.ca/p/public-hearings

Any person wishing to file a petition or comment in respect to the proposed Bylaw must do so in writing to the County of Minburn, Box 550, 4909 – 50 Street, Vegreville, AB T9C 1R6. Submissions must be received by 4:30 p.m., November 14, 2024.

If anyone wishes to make a verbal presentation to Council at the Public Hearing, the County of Minburn must be notified at 780-632-2082 by 4:30 p.m., November 14, 2024.

APPLICATIONSUMMARY

The Alberta Utilities Commission expects to receive an application from ATCO Gas and PipelinesLtd. to approve the existing current and valid natural gas distribution franchise agreement with the County of Minburn No. 27 for the Hamlet of Minburn. This application for approval is required due to changes made by the Utilities Affordability Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, to various statutes governing franchise agreements.

The current franchise agreement, which took effect in September of 2018, grants ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd. the exclusive right to deliver natural gas to the residents of the Hamlet of Minburn for approximately ten years.

No changes to the franchise agreement or to the franchise fee rate rider percentage are being made as part of this application. The franchise fee rate rider percentage will remain at its current rate, which is 16.61%. Including linear taxes, the resulting average monthly franchise fee for an average residential customer will remain the same at approximately $8.39. The franchise fee is calculated based on distribution charges. An average residential customer uses about 105 gigajoules per year.

You may send your concerns about, objections to, or support for the application in writing to the County of Minburn No. 27 or to ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd. on or before November 21, 2024 at: County of Minburn No. 27, Attn: Director of Corporate Services Box 550, 4909 – 50th Street, Vegreville, Alberta, T9C 1R6

Phone: 780-632-2082; Email: jwarawa@minburncounty.ab.ca

ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd., Attn: Franchise Agreement Coordinator 5302 Forand Street S.W. Calgary, Alberta, T3E 8B4

Phone: 310-5678 or 1-888-511-7550; Email: franchisecoordinatorgas@atco.com

Any submissions received, unless you request otherwise, will be part of the application submitted and will become part of the public record.

For more information on franchises or to receive a copy of the franchise agreement please contact either the County of Minburn No. 27 or ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd. at the addresses listed above.

For more information:

For more information about the AUC or its approval process associated with franchise applications, please contact the AUC directly at 310-4AUC or at info@auc.ab.ca.

The Alberta Utilities Commission is an independent, quasi-judicial regulatory body responsible for making decisions about utilityrelated applications.

Issued on November 6, 2024 Alberta Utilities Commission

The Alberta Utilities Commission expects to receive an application from ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd. to approve the existing current and valid natural gas distribution franchise agreement with the County of Minburn No. 27 for the Hamlet of Lavoy. This application for approval is required due to changes made by the Utilities Affordability Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, to various statutes governing franchise agreements.

The current franchise agreement, which took effect in October of 2018, grants ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd. the exclusive right to deliver natural gas to the residents of the Hamlet of Lavoy for approximately ten years.

No changes to the franchise agreement or to the franchise fee rate rider percentage are being made as part of this application. The franchise fee rate rider percentage will remain at its current rate, which is 16.61%.

Including linear taxes, the resulting average monthly franchise fee for an average residential customer will remain the same at approximately $10.45. The franchise fee is calculated based on distribution charges. An average residential customer uses about 105 gigajoules per year.

You may send your concerns about, objections to, or support for the application in writing to the County of Minburn No. 27 or to ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd. on or before November 21, 2024 at: County of Minburn No. 27, Attn: Director of Corporate Services Box 550, 4909 – 50th Street, Vegreville, Alberta, T9C 1R6

Phone: 780-632-2082; Email: jwarawa@minburncounty.ab.ca

ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd., Attn: Franchise Agreement Coordinator 5302 Forand Street S.W. Calgary, Alberta, T3E 8B4

Phone: 310-5678 or 1-888-511-7550; Email: franchisecoordinatorgas@atco.com

Any submissions received, unless you request otherwise, will be part of the application submitted and will become part of the public record.

For more information on franchises or to receive a copy of the franchise agreement please contact either the County of Minburn No. 27 or ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd. at the addresses listed above.

For more information:

For more information about the AUC or its approval process associated with franchise applications, please contact the AUC directly at 310-4AUC or at info@auc.ab.ca.

The Alberta Utilities Commission is an independent, quasi-judicial

$1.3 Million Bombshell

“I’m

try and find some positive movement forward, and it’s been really clear the last couple of years. We’ve had parents and businesses come to

FARM LANDS

LANDS: NW-9-53-14-W4th containing 160 Acres, more or less Excepting thereout all mines and minerals

LOCATION: on Hwy 16A north on Secondary Road 857 to Twp Rd 532 and then east to RR144. Property is directly east of RR144 and south of Twp 532 County of Minburn No. 27, Alberta

POSSESSION: 12 noon on December 13, 2024

CONTACT: Tender

DEADLINE: Tenders

us saying there was no way to stay in the community because there’s no child care as well as new built homes. So, this is going hand and glove together,” commented Councillor Taneen Rudyk.

“We’re excited to see your team that’s going to manage the day care. I’m just so excited for the industries, for the medical professionals that will now be able to stay in town, and I imagine in the hospital and tech people,” said Mayor Tim MacPhee.

FARM LANDS

LANDS: SE-27-49-15 W4th containing 160 Acres, more or less Excepting thereout all mines and minerals

LOCATION: Rural Beaver County HWY 857 to TWP Rd 494 west to RGE RD 152

POSSESSION: 12 noon on December 12, 2024

CONTACT:

“People don’t understand how much day care means to an economic advantage in your community,” added MacPhee.

Fox View Estates signage. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

This farmhouse, located in the northwest side of the County of Two Hills, appears to be at one with nature, and looks even more striking as the seasonal colours fade from vibrant to muted shades of golden yellow to lighter brown. (Michelle Pinon/Photos)

Kuldeep Sharma. (Town of Vegreville YouTube Video)

A New Year for the Vegreville 4-H Multi Club

The Vegreville 4-H Multi Club held their re-organizational meeting on October 7. There were a lot of new members which was great to see. Connie Steinwand and Kirby Lopaschuk are the club’s leader for the year. We spent time deciding which projects would be offered this year. There were a lot of projects to choose from! This year’s projects include: foods, crafts, light horse, poultry, rocketry, archery, small engines, and cleavers.

After deciding the projects, it was time to vote on our executive. This year, Rebecca Allan will be the President with Alyn Zukiwsky assisting in the Vice-President role. Corbin Lockhart will be the secretary and Allyson

Huculak will be the treasurer. The club reporter job will be shared between Matthew Allan, Matthew Mears, Zak Dinwoodie, and Amelia Davis. The club historians are Abby Pritchard and Ember Ferns. Caiden Steinwand, Rebecca Allan, and Hunter Gowsell will be representing our club at the district level.

We set up committees for the Halloween and Christmas Parties. We also decided that we will do tire recycling this year as a fundraiser. Fall Fling will be coming up soon for junior members to participate in. It was a busy meeting that shows we will have a great year!

2024 Winter Machinery & Feed Consignment

Matthew Allan Club Reporter

On October 26, the Vegreville 4-H Multi Club had their Halloween party at the bowling alley in Vegreville. (Vegreville 4-H Multi Club/Submitted Photo)

St. in Vegreville since August 2, 2024. Contact Brian at 780-860-8922 or RCMP

Rear bike rack for cars and monkey bars. $60 each. 587-322-1858

Two 12-ft metal gates. $200 each. 587-322-1858 Holden

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A Funtastic Decade

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

A lively crowd had a blast at the 80’s Dance Party hosted by Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 39 at the Legion Hall on November 2.

This event kicked in with cocktails and a delightful meal catered by Diane Fausak and her crew with students from St. Mary’s Catholic School volunteering as kitchen helpers.

There was also a heavenly array of desserts.

PETS

Shih Tzu Puppies. 1 male $600. 4 females $600 each. First shots and deworming. Available October 29. 587-280-2403

Male Pyrenees and Collie cross puppy. $100 obo. 780-222-8897.

SPORTING

For sale: Gently used golf balls. 18 for $10. If interested text

People expressed what they liked about the 80s. Lorraine Meyer said bell-bottom pants and Pepsi-Cola shoes. “I’ve wanted Pepsi-Cola shoes since I was 14 and bought some with the money I earned at

my job when I was 15.”

Morgana Larsen and her friends said they liked the music, zipper jeans, hair metal bands, cassette tapes, parachute pants, designer jeans, rock concert t-shirts, acid wash jeans, and Edmonton Oilers in the 80s.

The band Rubix Cubed performed next with incredible energy and playfulness. They sang and danced while enticing the audience to get up and boogie.

In a previous interview, premier 80’s tribute band stated that they are based in Edmonton and are composed of lead singer and guitarist Ken Polansky and bandmates Richard Korby, Chris Bradshaw and Sean Kaminski. They love 80’s music and feel it was the last era of magical performances.

Attendees dance the night away. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Party-goers enjoying the event together. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Rubix Cubed sings and dances during their performances. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Community Crosswalk Project a Labour of Love

believes it was the advocacy work with members of the community that made it possible to get the project done. “I’m glad it’s going to be safer for my kid and all the students and residents in the community.”

Village of Innisfree Chief Administrative Officer Kayla Paranych is also excited for the project to be completed. She said there were a lot of “moving parts” with the project and is glad it has finally come together with installation of the crosswalk poles, signs and solar lights during the week of Oct. 11-17.

It took a lot of research and effort to make a school crosswalk a reality, says Innisfree parent Kristina Brummer.

She is one of several Parent Advisory Council members who not only canvassed residents for support, but went before council on March 19, 2024, with a petition for the crosswalk that was recently installed near Delnorte School, which is situated adjacent to the main thoroughfare, Secondary Highway 870.

Brummer admits it was a lot of legwork, but well worth it. She

The first part, one her part, was getting an extension for a grant to fund the project. Other parts involved Alberta Transportation, Emcon, Madar Electric, and assistance from Village of Innisfree staff and County of Minburn.

Principal Rachel Miller said the location of the crosswalk was selected because it is near the bus loading zone and library, and is a good access point for different venues in the community that the school utilizes.

Miller said the crosswalk had definitely made a positive impact, especially with larger trucks that utilize that route in and out of the community. She is happy that it provides an extra sense of security and the lights increase visibility, especially when it is dark outside, particularly during the long winter months.

Living in a peaceful country like Canada, it’s easy to forget the wars of the 20th century in which our country’s freedom and harmony hung in the balance. We salute the service, commitment, and sacri ce made by women & men in uniform. Thank Your For Serving And Protecting Our Country

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

From L-R: Sawyer Raycraft, Colby Raycraft, Rachel Miller, Ellie Daley, Kayla Paranych, Daniel Mercer and Kristina Brummer. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Crosswalk signage and solar light. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

In

Please

Place

Place

We

an ache within our hearts

That never goes away.

Sadly missed always remembered Albina, Dianna and our families

MICKLICH, Jacob

In loving memory of Jacob Micklich

Who passed away seven years ago.

May 20, 1929 - November 8, 2017

I Miss You, Dad

I’ve gotten through the worst part, The sea of endless tears.

I’ve managed to go on from there,

To travel through the years.

I’ve had my share of gladness,

And watched my children grow, But one thing has remained unchanged, Somehow, I hope you know…

I never have forgotten,

The joys I shared with you.

You’ll always be a part of me, Of all I say and do.

And though I’m truly grateful For everything we had,

My heart forever echoes…

“I really miss you, Dad!”

Terry, Shauna, Caylib and Hayley, Joshua and Kiara, and Zachary Micklich

Harry

In Loving memory of our dear Dad & Gido who passed away on November 10, 1991

MEMORIES

Death leaves heartache

No one can heal

Memories are treasures

No one can steal

Some may forget you

Now that you are gone

But we will remember

No matter how long.

You will always stay Loved and remembered

In every way.

No tears, no verse,

Can ever say how much

We miss you every day.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by Kelly & Glen and family

Brenda & Jim

loving memory of

On October 27, 2024, Mr.

Daughters Pat Dehid, Arlene( Terry) Danchuk and Families

of Vegreville, Alberta passed away at the age of 77 years. He is survived by his 2 sons, Sheldon (Erin) & Percy (Kelly); 5 grandchildren, Shade, Mathew, Kyle, Shayla & Andrea; ex-spouse, Georgina; close friend, Wanita; sister, Mary (George) Wilkowski; numerous nieces, nephews & in-laws. Mr. Stark was predeceased by his son, Bradley in 2021; parents, Sam & Julia; brothers, John, Bill, Gordon, Walter, Alex, Mike, Steve, Peter, Nick, William, Henry & Victor; sisters, Anne & Helen. A Prayer Service will be held on Friday, November 8 at 7:00 p.m. at Grace Gardens Funeral Chapel, St. Paul with Reverend Father Andrij Nykyforuk officiating. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, November 9 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Gardens Funeral Chapel, St. Paul. Reverend Father Andrij Nykyforuk will be officiating, with interment in Protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery, St. Paul. If desired, donations may be made to STARS Foundation or Haying in the 30’s (Cancer Support Society) ℅ 5626 51 Street, St. Paul AB T0A 3A1. To send condolences online, please visit https:// www.gracegardensfuneralchapel.com/obituary/harveystark/ GRACE GARDENS FUNERAL CHAPEL 5626 - 51 Street, St. Paul, AB T0A 3A1 780645-2677

Progress Continues Towards Public Charter School in Andrew

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

The Andrew Rural Academy Foundation continues to focus on the future and the opening of the local charter school next September.

Board members met on Oct. 22 in the Village of Andrew multipurpose room to discuss several aspects of the proposed school including its charter application, curriculum, website, daycare, public meetings and fundraising events. They also approved the hiring of human resources and business management consultant Stan Zabrick.

Zabrick was previously involved with the Andrew School Committee that was formed to keep and grow the elementary school in the community following Elk Island Public School’s (EIPS) decision to close the junior high school. On June 30, 2023, EIPS closed Andrew School. Following that, the Village of Andrew agreed to purchase the facility, which includes the school and administration building for $1. The Village subsequently, committed $50,000 to the foundation.

Speaking to his hiring, Zabrick said, “I believe that some of my past work with that committee (which included Kylie who is now the Village CAO) showcased my technical writing and leadership skills so she reached out to ask if I would help them with getting the charter application across the finish line.”

was the submission of a completed charter. That has largely been accomplished, however, there are back and forth discussions that come from the submission; clarifications, amendments based on ministry input, etc. So, it will likely be the end of the month before I can say “truly” done.

But doing this stage of work you cannot help but be exposed and enlightened to everything else that needs to be done if the doors are going to open on time and we successfully deliver on our charter intent. And there is a lot- essentially you need to create a proxy for all of the things a school division provides to a school- procurement and contract management, vendor relationships, building services, curriculum selection and design, information technology, policy and procedures, human resources and recruitments, and on and on.

Zabrick is an alumni of Andrew School, and told the News Advertiser that he not only sees this as an intriguing career and growth opportunity, but a way of leveraging what he has learned throughout his 22 years of experience in progressive human resources and shared services.

Additionally, Zabrick stated that, “At the same time, I am deeply committed to the concept of a flourishing school in Andrew, as part of a flourishing community. But you can’t boil the ocean so start where impact can be generated. I graduated from this school, they set me up for my adult success...and I have a personal belief that everyone should give back.”

He explained that, “The original scope of the engagement

The role now transitions toward something more of an overall project management kind of rolegetting us to the point where it is the right time to bring a superintendent and principal on board, and then effectively handing off.”

Zabrick said the timeline that Alberta Education communicated to him “was up to 90 days” before a decision would be made on the charter application.

An area of the building has been designated and floor plan drafted for a daycare. Details regarding access, inside and outside play area and lease agreement options were presented by board member Barry Goertz. He pointed out that a daycare operator previously approached village council about offering their services.

Chair Jason Tkachuk only requested that any Program Unit Funding (PUF) be retained by the foundation. Alberta Education provides PUF for children with developmental disabilities who require learning support and funding is focused for students registered in an Early Childhood Services program.

The need to identify courses, develop learning labs, foster partnerships with educational institutions and businesses as well as sponsorship were also discussed during the meeting. Tkachuk touched on the desire to “re-engage with the community” and members had a discussion regarding a possible open house or community dinner in the near future.

ROZUMNIAK,

STARK, Harvey

Harvey Stark

ZUK, Ruby May 30, 1943 - November 4, 2015

loving memory of our dear sister Ruby Zuk (Hook) who passed away November 4, 2015

IFTODY, Metro

Grandfather,

Grandfather

MEMORIAM

MEMORIAM MEMORIAM OBITUARY

A Good Time for All Ages

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Phyllis Tarapacki having

handing out treats. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Double Dose of Happiness for Centenarians

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

October 31. Recreation Coordinator Milene

Rozmahel acknowledged the birthdays of all the participants born in October while she made a special announcement for the residents who were 100 years and over.

Sylvia O’Shea was born in Ontario on October 21, 1924. She was a year old when her family moved to a farm in Ranfurly where she grew up and lived her whole life. Sylvia credited living this long to working hard and enjoying her lovely family.

Sylvia’s neighbour, Louise Desrosiers from Ranfurly said Sylvia is a go-getter who knows what she wants, she is always happy, and doesn’t complain

about stuff.

Annie Powley turned 101 on October 8. She grew up and lived most of her life on a farm near Vegreville. Annie credited living this age to working hard.

Bertha MacBeth (nee Giebelhaus) was born on July 5, 1924 and grew up on a farm 12 miles south of Vegreville. She said she lived to be 100 because she was always good to others and worked hard. This event also included a lively performance of piano music by Tony Mapa, refreshments, and a contest for best costume and Jack-O-Lantern.

Sylvia O’Shea.

Annie Powley. Right: Staff and resident sporting their costumes.

(Rosanne Fortier/ Photos)

Bertha MacBeth.

Blast Off Into Space

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

expressed that the organizing team was thoroughly impressed and decided to give it a try because who doesn’t like thinking about space travel while we remember the connection to God its Creator!

The activities included each planet being visited which had an activity and the participants learned at least 10 interesting items about the planets. There was origami spaceship folding, rocket ship building, creating an alien, balloon games, ball toss, ring the planet, bowling and even a tattoo station.

There was a Space Cafe with the following items to choose from: space worm sandwich; outer space burger; alien meringue cookies; alien toenails and Martian Juice.

Cependa went on to say that overall, they all agreed that

everything worked out well. “We thought it was an extremely fun family event and we would do something similar again. We met some families that were new-to-town and they were able to connect with others! It was a win-win situation.”

Organizers chose the theme because a website they found had great ideas for activities and even gave them suggestions on how to plan for the event.

Coordinator Holly Cependa

Around 30 children and adults had eyes filled with wonder and anticipation as they took participated in the first ever Space Quest program at Vegreville United Church on October 31 for Halloween party.

Provincial Tour to Assist Ukrainian Evacuees in Alberta

MLA for Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville

This last month has been a busy one as I just completed the first leg of my provincial tour for my role as Parliamentary Secretary for Settlement Services and Ukrainian Evacuees. On this tour, I met with charities, schools, libraries, and all types of organizations that work to help settle the more than 65,000 Ukrainian Evacuees in Alberta. I got to see what challenges they face and how they are overcoming these challenges in innovative ways. I hope to spread information about what approaches are working across the province so that we can all support this vulnerable population better. If you know of an organization that would deserve to be included in future tours, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office.

I am happy to say that the Local Growth and Sustainability Grant (LGSG) first announced in Budget 2024 is now being launched by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs. People are choosing to move to Alberta because we have the best combination of

job opportunities, high wages, low taxes, and cost of living anywhere in Canada. All that growth has meant some strain on municipal infrastructure, and the $60 million allocated to the LGSG over the next three years will help address that. The growth component of the LGSG will help mid-sized communities, like several in our constituency, build much needed infrastructure through competitive cost-sharing grants. Applications for this component close on November 29th. The sustainability component will help communities of less than 10,000 address health and safety concerns on an invitation basis.

Through our government’s Small Community Opportunity Program, we have pledged $6 million to provide financial backing for Indigenous and small communities in Alberta. I was glad to see the County of Minburn, the Town of Two Hills, the Town of Vegreville, the Village of Myrnam, as well as the Alberta HUB receive funding under this program. This funding will be key to addressing challenges and capitalizing on opportunities in our area.

People participating in the program. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

A purple dinosaur and Mario getting ready for some fun crafts.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk

Roll Yo r Dollars O er At Home

We o e it to o r friends and famil to keep all of the mone e spend orking for s here at home. If local dollars ere spent ith Vegre ille merchants, o r standard of li ing o ld be be er and o r comm nit o ld be more prospero s.

One of the most common and least sensible form of gi ing is the making of dona ons to the gro th of other comm ni es. E perts sa that e er dollar o spend t rns o er p to se en mes. That means that a dollar spent some here else ill take a a in trade, ages, local ta es and man other benefits.

It’s simple economics.

Thanks for shopping in Vegreville. The following businesses are concerned about the

Future of Vegreville.

Adam’s No Frills

780-603-2600

Agriterra Equipment

780-632-2514

County of Minburn

780-632-2082

Deerland Equipment

780-632-6006

Ernie’s AutoBody

780-632-3011

Finelines Professional Painting and Decorating

780-991-1986

Flash Distributors/NAPA

780-632-2881

G&R Sand & Gravel Ltd.

780-632-1569

HCL Site Services

780-632-9723

Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk

780-632-6840

Jiffy Lube & Car Wash

780-632-6144

Kal Tire

780-632-6688

Lakeland Power Co-op

780-632-6112

Love’s Custom Meats

780-632-2700

Ncube & Landry LLP

780-631-1120

OK Tire

780-632-2388

Perry’s Pizza

780-632-6300

Prime Cuts Meat & Deli

780-632-6149

RJV Gas Field Services

780-632-7774

Rocky Mountain Equipment

780-632-6677

Royal Canadian Legion

780-632-3900

Synergy CPA’s

780-632-6788

The Brick Vegreville

780-632-6100

Town of Vegreville

780-632-2606

Twin Lakes Ready-Mix & Aggregates

780-632-7787

Vantage Builders / Rona 780-632-3422 / 780-632-2119

Vegreville Auto Body

780-632-2445

Vegreville & District Co-op 780-632-2884

Vegreville Dental Centre

780-632-3368

Vegreville Drug Mart

780-632-7660

Vegreville Family Dental

780-632-3912

Vegreville Home Hardware

780-632-3388

Vegreville Mechanical

780-632-4140

Vegreville Plumbing & Heating

780-632-2275

Vito’s Steak & Pizza and Sports Lounge

780-632-3999

VM Systems

780-632-2859

Vegreville News Advertiser

780-632-2861

Webb’s Machinery 780-632-6772

Xtreme Equipment

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In Memory of Our Heros

On this Remembrance Day, take the time to stop and think about the thousands of Canadians who have selflessly given their lives to protect this beautiful nation.

courage remembered and honoured

anks to these courageous men and women who bravely fought in the name of freedom, Canadians have the opportunity to live in a country where peace and democracy reign free.

To honour their memory and acts of valour, wear your poppy proud, and participate in a moment of silence at 11:11 a.m., wherever you may be.

Adventures of Veteran William McMechan

AB-16A

AB T9C 0A3

473 people received the Medal of Honor due to theiractions during World War2.

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Veteran William (Bill) McMechan was born in Salmon Arm, British Columbia on June 26, 1933.

During high school, Bill took some business courses and after he finished he took a four-month course in this field and obtained a job at the Royal Bank of Canada. One day, a friend asked if he wanted to play in a softball tournament as he was good at playing sports.

From there, Bill played for the Naval Reserve Team. While there, he was talking to an officer recruiting for the Navy and thought this might be a good time to join as it would be interesting to do something different other than working at the bank as he was 20-years-old.

“I wanted to serve my country and thought I should do this before I had the responsibility of a family. I also wanted to travel and see the world.”

Bill joined the Royal Canadian Navy in July 1953. He went to Cornwallis, Nova Scotia for Basic Training for the Navy where he was there for about four and a half months. Then he went to Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship Naden where he took his trade training and went in as a paid administrative writer from May, 1954 till April, 1955.

Bill explained, “At that time, I was in a privileged job. While in the office, he also worked on shore patrol for the security of the base.

German U-boats sunk 2,000 Allied ships at a cost of 781 U-boats destroyed.

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Phone: 780 632 6788 www.synergycpas.ca 4909-51 Ave. Vegreville, AB

The swastika is an ancient religious symbol. It derives from the Sanskrit name for a hooked cross, which was used by ancient civilizations as a symbol of fertility and good fortune. It has been found in the ruins of Greece, Egypt, China, India, and Hindu temples.

Germany had a total of 3,363 generals during the war while the U.S. had just over 1,500.

In July, 1956 we took the HMCS to Ontario. We were getting ready to go to the Suez Canal. However, two days before we were ready to go, the British and Americans all settled it. So, instead, we ended up making a trip to Prince Rupert and Alaska.

The second trip we went for four months to the Far East of the Pacific on January 7, 1957. We left Esquimalt on the 16th to Hilo, on the 22 to Pearl Harbour, 8 February to Guam, 15 to Manila, 26 to Crissed the Line, and 27 to Singapore. Then on March 11, we went to Hong Kong till the 21, Okinawa on the 24 to Yokohama, and on the 18 we went back to Pearl Harbour and on May 3 Esquimalt.

The third trip, we went to Hilo and Pearl Harbour again and then we came back to California and Santa Barbara and went back home in July 1957.”

Bill said at this time, certain countries were still recovering from the disruption of

The Battle of the Bulge wasn't just a significant World War II battle—for some historians, the Battle of the Bulge is “the greatest battle in American military history.” The Allies had successfully landed in northern France and were pushing east towards Germany. That was when Hitler ordered his last great offensive of the war.

More than 650,000 Jeeps were built during WWII. American factories also produced 300,000

1, 1939 is the date most scholars give as the beginning of World War II in Europe. Led by its führer(supreme leader), Adolf Hitler, Germany had, for several years, been amassing a military powerful enough to conquer Europe and possibly even the world. Hitler chose Poland as a target for his ambitions and began the

Vegreville, Lamont, Vermilion, Wainwright, St. Paul and Consort

Adventures of Veteran William McMechan - CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

William McMechan relaxing at his home at Vegreville Manor. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Honour Our Veterans Banner Program

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

The Honour Our Veterans Banner Program is an initiative of the Swift Current Museum to pay tribute to local veterans and active service members.

According to the City of Swift Current’s website, the first installation of banners took place in 2016 in Memorial Park and is an ongoing legacy project. “Through the displaying of the banners, we hope to engage the community in honouring and remembering local veterans through an initiative that will ensure continued recognition and respect through future generations.”

The program is sponsored through the purchase of individual banners. Banners are displayed for a period of three years, after which the sponsor can keep the banner as a family keepsake.

Looking on Facebook, Honour Our Veterans Oct. 27 post included the following poem:

The Poppy

I’m not a badge of honour,

Nor a racist smear.

I’m not a fashion statement to be worn once a year.

I’m not a glorification of conflict or war.

I’m not a paper ornament, nor a simple token. I am so much more.

I’m a loving memory of a family or a friend.

A permanent reminder of each and every one.

I’m paper, fabric, or enamel.

I’m old or shiny and new.

I’m a way of saying “Thank You” to each and every one of you.

I am a red poppy.

A reminder to all of you that courage, faith, and honour will always stand where heroes fall.

Honour Our Veterans Initiative

Alberta (780) 632-6661

find records of your ancestors' service.

Showing Respect to Veterans

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Showing appreciation to our veterans should happen all year long. There are many ways to do this.

These could include inviting them to lunch.

We can listen to their stories or offer to write these down in a booklet to have a keepsake for their families or relatives.

Wear a poppy during Veteran’s Week.

Read their stories to children and students at schools.

Watch films and movies about their service.

Send thank you cards to veterans.

Join your local Legion branch and volunteer your time.

Attend Veterans Day events or parades.

Contact your local MP or MLA to ask for increase wages and pensions for military personnel, firefighters, and members of RCMP.

If you have the resources, join groups that financial support veterans who are injured or become disabled due to the service.

Have elementary students draw pictures and write thank you notes.

Shake their hand and thank them for their service any day of the year.

Remembrance Day - 2024 Vegreville Social Centre

5137 - 52 Ave, Vegreville P: 780-632-4909

Prisoners of war in Russian camps experienced an 85% mortality rate.

Bank of Montreal 5102 50 Street Vegreville Tel: 780-632-2864

John Wayne (Marion Robert Morrison) starred in 14 WWII movies; however, due to a football injury, he never actually served in the war.

Avenue Vegreville, AB

780.632.2060/1.800.263.3673 email: info@vegford.ca www.vegford.com

51 Ave, Vegreville, AB PH: (780) 632-4987

M&Ms were first sold exclusively to the US Army for soldiers during WWII, and they were not allowed to sell the candy to the public until after the war.

Even after the Allies arrived, many concentration camp prisoners were beyond help. In Bergen-Belsen, for example, 13,000 prisoners died after liberation. Nearly 2,500 of the 33,000 survivors of Dachau died within six weeks of liberation.

Many

turning point of WWII in Europe

Please be seated by 10:45 as Ceremony will start at 11:00.

MARCH ON THE COLOURS O CANADA

- Last Post: Silence / Lament / Rouse

ACT OF REMEMBRANCE

We Will Remember Them Response: We Will Remember Them

DEPOSIT COLOURS

RETIRE COLOUR PARTY

INVOCATION: Rev. Laureta Blondin, Acting Branch Chaplain

LAYING OF WREATHS

RETIRE CENOTAPH GUARDS

INDIGENOUS LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

WELCOME: Comrade Terry Kuzyk, President, Legion Branch No. 39

SCRIPTURE READINGS: - Micah 4:3-7 - Matthew 5:45-48

CHAPLIN’S MESSAGE - Rev. Laureta Blondin

VETERAN’S PERSPECTIVE - CO, LCOL Christopher Barr, CD

OFFERING: Musical interlude by Brenda Tuck

HYMN - O God, Our Help in Ages Past

combat operations on the Western Front from June 1940 until 4 years later, with the Normandy landings in June 1944.

WWII resulted in the downfall of Europe as a center of world power and led to the rise of the U.S. and Russia as super powers. This set up conditions for both the US-USSR cold war and the nuclear age.

In Flanders Fields was first published in England's Punch magazine in December 1915. Within months, this poem came to symbolize the sacrifice of all who were fighting in the First World War

PRESENTATIONS:

Bob & Jean Kelly Scholarships:

- Kacie-Rae Kisilevich, St. Mary’s High School

- Delaney Shewchuk, Vegreville Composite High School

Ladies Auxiliary Scholarship:

- Kacie-Rae Kisilevich, St. Mary’s High School

CLOSING REMARKS: Comrade Terry Kuzyk, President

BENEDICTION: Rev. Laureta Blondin, Acting Branch Chaplain Response: Lest We Forget

COLOUR PARTY RETRIEVES COLOURS

“God Save the King”

COLOUR PARTY RETIRES THE COLOURS

REMEMBRANCE DAY PARTICIPANTS 2024

- President, Royal Canadian Legion, Branch No. 39: Comrade Terry Kuzyk

- Acting Legion Chaplain: Rev. Laureta Blondin

- Musician: Brenda Tuck

- Bugler: W. G. McMunn

- Master of Ceremonies: Rev. Laureta Blondin

- Representing the Silver Cross Mother: Brenda Rennie-Koch Silver Cross Mother.

- Honourary Lt. Col. Anne McLellan, OOC, AOE

- CO: LCol Christopher Barr, CD

- RSM: CWO Michel Mazerolle, CD

- OC 25 Sqn: Major Welby Thumwood, CD

- SSM 25 Sqn: MWO Chad Santo, CD

- Cenotaph Guard Commander: Sgt. A. Campea, CD

- XO HMCS Nonsuch: LCdr/Capc. James Davies, CD

- Sergeant-at-Arms: Comrade Ben Jamison

- Legion Colour Party:

- Veterans, Members of Legion Branch No. 39

- Royal Canadian Legion Ladies Auxiliary Branch No. 39

- 41 Combat Engineer Regiment

- HMCS Nonsuch

- RCMP Vegreville Detachment and Veterans

- No. 341 Air Cadets - Mundare Squadron

- Vegreville Emergency Services

- Vegreville Fire Department

The greatest tank battle in history occurred between the Germans and Russians at

More

a term of derision by journalist Konrad Heiden (1901-1966).

For example, Henry Fonda won a Bronze Star in the Pacific, Walter Matthau was awarded six battle stars while serving on a B-17, and David Niven was awarded the U.S. Legion of Merit. Christopher Lee was a pilot in the Royal Air Force and also won a number of awards.

The Poppy. To Honour and Remember

The Poppy is a powerful symbol of Remembrance.

From the last Friday in October to Remembrance Day, millions of Canadians wear a Poppy as a visual pledge to never forget those who served and sacrificed. The red flower also is the symbol of the Legion’s Poppy Campaign, raising funds to support Veterans and their families in need. We invite everyone across the country to show their recognition by proudly wearing this symbol of Remembrance.

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

“In Flanders Fields” is a poem written during the First World War by Canadian Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae after he presided over the funeral of a friend and fellow soldier. So many years later, his poem continues to poignantly express the tragedy of the losses of war. So many years later, his poem continues to poignantly express the tragedy of the losses of war, and the importance of carrying on their memories.

Wear a Poppy to honour and remember Canada’s Veterans.

How to wear your Poppy

The Legion’s lapel Poppy is a sacred symbol of Remembrance and should not be affixed with a pin that obstructs the Poppy. The Poppy should be worn on the left side, over the heart.

When to wear your Poppy

The lapel Poppy should be worn during the Remembrance period, from the last Friday in October until November 11. The Legion encourages the wearing of Poppies at funerals of Veterans, and for any commemorative event such as a memorial service, or the anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.

The Royal Canadian Legion is Committed to Ensuring Youth Understand

and Continue the Tradition of Remembrance

World War II happened on a global scale. It was so big and complex that it can be difficult to think about it in terms of actual people—mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles—families whose lives and relationships were never the same again.

Legion Branches support youth involvement in Remembrance in a variety of ways. From holding Remembrance ceremonies at schools, speaking with students and youth organizations about Veterans, inviting youth to participate in community and

Branch commemorative services, to inviting Cadets to help with the Poppy Campaign, and much more. Legion Branches offer youth many opportunities to get involved and participate in honouring and Remembering Canada’s Veterans.

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Activities for Youth include:

- Remembrance Poster, Literary & Video Contests

- Make a Poppy Crafts

- Grow a Poppy Garden

The Battle of Leyte Gulf was the largest naval battle of WWII. Over 200,000 military personnel and over 300 ships were involved in the battle (also considered by some historians as the naval battle in history)

When Nazi leaders at last signed the document of surrender, on May 7, 1945, people around the world took to the streets to celebrate. United States President Harry Truman called it “a victory only half won,” however, as American soldiers in the Pacific were, at that

engaged in one of

The most powerful artillery gun created by any nation and used in WWII was named Karl by its designer General Karl Becker. Used mostly against the Russians, the huge gun could shoot a 2.5 ton shell over three miles. The shells were 24 inches wide and could go through eight to nine feet of concrete.

The Great Depression had a ripple effect throughout the world. It prevented Germany from paying WWI reparations, which forced Great

and

How to remove a Poppy

When a Poppy is removed, it should be stored appropriately, or disposed of respectfully. We encourage anyone who finds a Poppy that has fallen to the ground to pick it up, brush it off, wear it or dispose of it with respect.

Vegreville Native Turned Commanding Officer

Second Lieutenant Jessica Northrup Public Affairs Officer (OJT) / 12 Wing HQ

Canadian Armed Forces

Lieutenant Colonel (LCol) Geoffrey St. Germaine, originally from Vegreville, Alberta, and a graduate of Vegreville Composite High School, followed his passion for aviation to a career in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) that has taken him all over the world. Coming from a family of RCMP officers, LCol St. Germaine followed in the public service tradition, beginning his journey with basic training in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, in 2000. After completing his primary Air Combat Systems Officer (ACSO) training at 402 Squadron at 17 Wing in Winnipeg, he received his first posting to 12 Wing in Shearwater, NS. As an ACSO first on the CH124 Sea King, then the CH148 Cyclone, he was responsible for mission planning, combat systems operations and directing tactical missions. On Cyclone, he was also responsible for employing maritime doctrine to counter surface and subsurface threats from both near-peer and asymmetric competitors, providing situational awareness and stand-off anti-submarine warfare weapons to the Royal Canadian Navy.

Now the Commanding Officer of 406 Maritime Operational Training Squadron at 12 Wing Shearwater, Nova Scotia, he oversees training at the base. “I’m responsible for the training of aircraft technicians, pilots, tactical coordinators and sensor operators on the CH 148 Cyclone Maritime Helicopter,” explains LCol St. Germaine when asked about his role. Being a Commanding Officer is an immense responsibility but it is also rewarding. “My favorite part of the job is seeing new students graduate from 406 Squadron knowing that

Gratitude for our Veterans

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Citizens expressed why we should honour veterans. Eva Forrester-McCauley said that as a veteran’s daughter, honouring them is what they deserve. They gave everything to us, even those who came home suffered because of the time spent in war. “I can’t imagine what it is like to go to war and know they killed another person! This haunted my father until he died in 2011. I honour veterans because I enjoy the life I do because of them.”

Helen Leigh Christensen expressed we should honour veterans because it helps us realize the cost of war and motivates us to work for peace. “My father, Walter Leigh enlisted in December 1941 at Regina. He was discharged in January 1946 because he stayed after the end of the war to rebuild dikes in Holland. He earned the 1939-45 Star medal, France and Germany Star medal, Defense medal, Canadian Volunteer Service medal and clasp.”

Nessa Plotnikova shared the opinion that they fought endlessly to protect the people for future generations and to withhold freedom in Canada. They sacrificed their time and time spent with their families. The most precious thing we can give to anyone is time. Not only time but the sacrifice of their physical and mental health. “They gave all of themselves so we can be here today. And today some still are working through the impact of sharing their lives for others. And for that we are thankful.”

Ian Mercer said they sacrificed so we can live. We will remember them.

Angel Harvalson commented that honouring veterans goes beyond gratitude. It also highlights the importance of their role in shaping national history

The oldest known soldier of the Second World War was Nikolai Alexandrovich Morozov, who served in the Red Army as a sniper at age 88 in 1942.

in World War II are estimated at between 75 and 85 million people, with 26 million in the military and 59 million civilians

Although Japan fought on the side of Britain, France, and the U.S. during WWI, it felt cheated by its failure to gain much territory when the peace treaty was composed. Additionally, in the 1920s, its government came under control of fanatical nationalists and allied with the army, which eventually prompted Japan to side with Germany.

they have the skills needed to deploy aboard Halifaxclass frigates and deliver airpower in the CH148 Cyclone

Vegreville Native Turned Commanding Officer - CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Gratitude for our Veterans - CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Lieutenant Colonel (LCol) Geoffrey St. Germaine (Master Corporal Labossiere, 12 Wing Imagery Technician/Photo)

World War II and because he was on patrol, he could see more than the average person. Some countries were very poor. A lot of places were being rebuilt.

But he was pleased that none of his friends passed away during the service as they were serving in peacetime.

In September of 1957, Bill got married. Later, they had three children and were married for 45 years when his wife passed away from cancer.

Out of the 40,000 men who served on U-boats during WWII, only 10,000 returned.

The youngest member of the British Armed Forces to die in WWII was Reginald Earnshaw, who was 14 years and 152 days old when he was killed on July 6th, 1941.

5213 - 51 Avenue

After a nearly four-month air campaign waged over England, Britain's Royal Air Force and Navy respond to heavy bombing attacks from Germany's Luftwaffe air force, including “the Blitz,” in an attempt to destroy the RAF before invading. Defense systems, including radar, and Hitler's decision to bomb London, rather than military bases, allows Britain to regroup and eventually win the battle.

He belonged to different Legions for 55 years and has been a member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 39 in Vegreville for three years.

The advice he would give anyone who wanted to join the Canadian Armed Forces was to go for it. There is more to the Armed Forces than running around and shooting. It is about camaraderie, and getting an education. The discipline people get from being in the service will benefit them for life.

In closing, Bill expressed that the only way that we can prevent war is for people to sit down and talk instead of shoot.

He is glad to be a Canadian living in Western Canada when he sees what happens in parts of the world.

Bill now lives at Vegreville Manor which he said is a nice place to live and life is just what you make it to be.

Dubuc Accounting

Nearly a quarter of the population of Nazi Germany served in the Armed Forces during World War 2

The United States was the highest spender in World War 2, spending an estimated $285 billion (equivalent to $4.6 trillion in 2022) on the war.

Both France and England had promised to help Poland should it ever be attacked, and so on September 3, 1939, the two countries declared war

Anne Frank and her sister died at BergenBelsen in March 1945, one month before the camp was liberated in April 1945. During its existence, nearly 50,000 people died. After evacuating the camp, British soldiers burned it to the ground to prevent the spread of typhus.

Adventures of Veteran William McMechan - CONTINUED from PAGE 2

Left: An award William received for volunteering and being a Kiwanian for 25 years. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

A recent picture of a photo of William with his family. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

William with his late wife in their younger years. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

A Day to Honour Those Who Defended Peace

November 11 marks Remembrance Day in Canada. Every year, Canadians come together to honour the courage and sacrifices of the men and women who serve or have served in the country’s armed forces, and particularly those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Here’s a look at this day of gathering and remembrance.

Evocative numbers

It’s important to remember the sacrifices made by the more than 2,300,000 individuals who have joined the armed forces in Canada’s national history. Over 118,000 brave servicemen and women have given their lives to defend freedom. Remembrance Day honours the

Canadian effort in the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War, the war in Afghanistan and all peacekeeping missions.

Nationally recognized

On November 11, Canadians wear a poppy to pay tribute to veterans. The national ceremony in Ottawa, broadcast across the country, is held in the presence of government representatives. It includes a two-minute silence at 11 a.m., readings, songs and symbolic cannon shots.

As a Canadian citizen, join the veterans in your area in this collective duty of remembrance. Contact your local municipality to find out about Remembrance Day activities near you.

American military officials discussed dropping a third atomic bomb on Japan, with Tokyo the target on August 19th, 1945, but President Harry S. Truman ordered no more to be dropped without his direct approval.

www.forevermonuments.com

The largest Japanese spy ring during WWII was not in the U.S. but in Mexico, where it spied on the U.S. Atlantic Fleet.

During WWII, hamburgers in the U.S. were dubbed “Liberty Steaks” to avoid the Germansounding name.

In a bizarre move, Hitler's deputy and confidant Rudolf Hess parachuted into Scotland on May 10, 1941, to negotiate a peace agreement. The British concluded he was mentally unstable. He was kept as a POW and given a life sentence at the Nuremberg War Crimes Trial.

After its defeat in WWI, Germany was forced to sign the Treaty of Versailles in 1919. Germany lost all its overseas empires as well as land to its neighbors, and it was prevented from maintaining a large army. Most Germans opposed the treaty, and their resentment would eventually undo the settlement, leading to WWII.

and identity. Veterans have served in a wide range of conflicts, both at home and abroad, often under extreme conditions, to defend the rights and liberties enjoyed by citizens. By recognizing their efforts, societies reinforce a collective memory of resilience, duty and sacrifice.

Veterans are living witnesses to significant historical events. By honouring them, societies ensure their stories, experiences, and the lessons learned from their service are passed down to future generations. This helps maintain a connection to the past and allows us to understand the human cost of war and conflict.

If it became necessary to drop a third atom bomb on Japan, the city that would have been the target was Tokyo

Box 167 Mundare, AB

780-915-1601 fspaintingltd@gmail.com

Honouring them also promotes patriotism and civic responsibility. It helps to support their transition to civilian life because many veterans face challenges when transitioning back into civilian life, including physical injuries, PTSD, and difficulties finding employment. Honouring them through support programs, ceremonies, and recognition can ease this transition ensuring that they are

William Hitler, a nephew of Adolf Hitler, was in the U.S. Navy during WWII. He changed his name after the war.

not forgotten or neglected after their service ends.

As well, it acknowledges the families of veterans. Finally, it reinforces the value of sacrifice and service.

Karen LeMottee voiced that veterans past and present should not be honoured just one day of the year as they gave up so much for us to be free! They should be recognized for a week like some other groups get.

“Children should be taught in schools what veterans have done for us to be free and what sacrifices they made for us.”

Kim O’Ceallachain said when somebody writes a blank cheque to a nation to be paid with their loyalty, courage, dedication, blood and life so that others in the

nation don’t have to, the least the rest of the population can do is grant them the respect they deserve and the compensation for their injuries acquired from their service.”

Janet Pritchard expressed they gave their own lives so our generation and the younger generations could live in freedom. “These brave soldiers should always be remembered, long after they are gone.”

Wendy Therlault mentioned we should honour them because of their heroism, bravery and sacrifice so we could have a life lived in peace.

Revan Lockheart Gunn stated that if not for brave people like their grandpa who served in World War II, we would either be unalive or under communist control.

Joseph Kramer (1906-1945), a commander of Bergen-Belsen, was known as the “Beast of Belsen.” When asked if he “felt anything” as he watched and participated in the deaths of thousands of men, women, and children, Kramer said he didn't feel anything because he was following orders. He was later executed for crimes against humanity.

Eva Forrester-McCauley’s father David Francis Prentice. (Eva Forrester-McCauley/Submitted Photo)

Photo of an old picture of Helen Leigh Christensen’s father, Walter Leigh. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Every year, The Royal Canadian Legion conducts the Poppy Campaign, along with thousands of our members who volunteer from coast to coast to coast, to raise funds in support of Veterans and their families. Poppies are distributed freely, but your generous donations are invaluable and welcome.

The History of the Poppy

Napoleonic Wars

The significance of the Poppy can be traced back to the Napoleonic Wars in the 19th century, over 110 years before being adopted in Canada. Records from that time indicate that thick Poppies grew over the graves of soldiers in Flanders, France. Fields that had been barren before battle exploded with the blood-red flowers after the fighting ended.

First World War

The person who first introduced the Poppy to Canada and the Commonwealth was Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae of Guelph, Ontario, a Canadian Medical Officer during the First World War. John McCrae penned the Poem “In Flanders Fields” on a scrap of paper in May 1915 on the day following the death of a fellow soldier. Little did he know then that those

13 lines would become enshrined in the hearts and minds of all who would wear them. McCrae’s poem was published in Punch Magazine in December of that same year.

1921

The idea for the Remembrance Poppy was imagined by Madame Anna Guérin of France. She was inspired by John McCrae’s poem “In Flanders Fields.” Anna had originally founded a charity to help rebuild regions of France after the First World War, and created poppies made of fabric to raise funds. Later, Anna presented her concept to France’s allies, including the precursor to The Royal Canadian Legion, The Great War Veterans Association. The idea was considered at a meeting in Port Arthur, Ontario (now Thunder Bay) and was adopted on July 6, 1921.

Today

The Poppy is worn each year during the Remembrance period to honour Canada’s Fallen. The Legion also encourages the wearing of a Poppy for the funeral of a Veteran and for any commemorative event honouring Fallen Veterans. Thanks to the millions of Canadians who wear the Legion’s lapel Poppy each November, the little red flower has never died, and the memories of those who fell in battle remain strong.

in support of Government of Canada objectives. Knowing that we have the best instructors and best training to prepare our young aviators to represent Canada across the globe brings me immense pride.”

LCol Geoffrey St. Germaine brings a wealth of experience to his position, including several deployments, such as Op Caribbe, Canada’s counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean Sea; Op Artemis the counter-terrorism operations in the Indian Ocean, Gulf of Oman and Red Sea, primarily focused on intercepting narcotics, weapons and embargoed goods; and Op Reassurance, Canada’s contribution to NATO deterrence and defence measures in Central and Eastern Europe. When reflecting on his most memorable experience, he recalls serving as Detachment Commander for the final deployment of the beloved CH124 Sea King helicopter on Operation Reassurance in 2018. “It was incredibly meaningful for our 19-member Helicopter Air Detachment to take the Sea King out to do its job for Canada one last time.. We returned in July 2018, and many of those team members continued working with the Sea King until its retirement in December of that year.”

LCol Geoffrey St. Germaine is proudly based at 12 Wing, home to the Maritime Helicopter community and centre of naval aviation in Canada.

Vegreville Native Turned Commanding Officer - CONTINUED from PAGE 7

Star Volunteer Larry Chmilar

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Larry Chmilar’s life revolves around the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 39. He is always seen around Vegreville on his scooter, bringing so much

for “Hairy-Assed Marines.”

HEALTH FOODS

energy and enthusiasm to whatever job he does for this organization.

This gem of a man has been a member for four years, but he volunteered many years before that. He received a pin for selling the most raffle tickets. He can also be spotted cleaning tables after functions, helping prepare food in the kitchen, doing snow removal in the winter months and doing many other errands with a positive attitude.

Larry admitted that he became a member because he loves to help this organization out. “I am not sure if I have any veteran family members, but it is important to honour them.”

He went on to say the best part about the Legion is the overall nice atmosphere and they have lots of interesting events which he loves to participate in.

“Our Legion is unique because they take good care of their hall and have done some really nice renovations lately.”

Larry mentioned that others should join the Legion because they have many chances for comradeship and there are a lot of activities going on all the time.

his

Henry Ford also kept a framed photo of the Nazi leader on his desk in Dearborn, Michigan. In Mein Kampf, Hitler included some anti-Semitic views attributed to Ford.

by Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae

May 3, 1915

In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

remembered and honoured

In 1974, a Japanese soldier named Hiroo Onoda (1922- ) came out of the jungle of the Pacific island of Lubang. He had been hiding there for 29 years, unaware that his

Larry selling raffle tickets at the Vegreville Legion. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)